In the lead-up to her pursuit of a third consecutive Australian Open title, Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka shares her profound aspirations and personal struggles in an exclusive interview with Harper’s Bazaar. The 26-year-old athlete, who graces the cover of the magazine’s January issue, discusses her determination to inspire others through resilience and perseverance.

Empowering Fans to Embrace Strength and Tenacity

The Power of Inspiration

Aryna Sabalenka's ambition extends far beyond the tennis court. Her ultimate goal is to serve as a beacon of inspiration for individuals around the globe. In her candid conversation with Harper’s Bazaar, she emphasizes the importance of being a role model. She recounts moments when fans have approached her, expressing how her journey has motivated them to overcome their own challenges. "If someone can look at me and think, 'She did it, and she was strong, and I just have to do the same and I can go through it,' I’ll be really happy," Sabalenka reflects. This sentiment underscores her desire to empower others to confront adversity head-on.Her words carry significant weight, especially in today's world where mental fortitude is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of success. Sabalenka's narrative serves as a powerful reminder that resilience is not just about winning matches but also about enduring life's inevitable trials. By sharing her story, she hopes to instill confidence in those who may feel overwhelmed by their circumstances. Ultimately, Sabalenka believes that everyone possesses the strength to triumph over obstacles, provided they remain steadfast and unwavering in their resolve.

A Turning Point in Her Career

Sabalenka's path to greatness has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. One of the most pivotal moments in her career came three years ago, when she found herself grappling with a particularly challenging period. During this time, she struggled with her serve, double-faulting frequently and questioning whether she should continue playing tennis. It was during this phase that she reached a critical juncture, one that would define her future trajectory. "I realized I have so much love for the sport and there are so many things behind the scenes that I just couldn’t give up," she recalls.This realization became a turning point for Sabalenka. Instead of succumbing to doubt, she chose to persevere, determined to find a solution to her problem. She experimented with different techniques, sought guidance from coaches, and worked tirelessly to refine her skills. Through this process, she not only improved her serve but also gained invaluable insights into her mental and emotional resilience. Today, as she stands on the precipice of another major tournament, Sabalenka credits this experience for shaping her into the formidable player she is today. Her ability to push through adversity has become a defining characteristic of her career, inspiring countless others to do the same.

Mental Resilience and Personal Growth

The mental aspect of tennis cannot be underestimated, especially at the highest levels of competition. Sabalenka acknowledges the importance of maintaining a strong mindset, particularly when facing high-pressure situations. "When you get to a high level, it definitely takes a lot of mental work," she explains. "You have to keep reminding yourself that you’re strong enough. You do not necessarily have to be tough on yourself, and you don’t have to cry, but you have to understand that whatever you’re going through, you just have to go through it."Sabalenka's approach to mental resilience is rooted in self-compassion and acceptance. She emphasizes the need to embrace challenges rather than fear them, recognizing that each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth. This philosophy has not only strengthened her on the court but has also had a profound impact on her personal life. Following the unexpected loss of her father, Sergey, in 2019, Sabalenka relied on these principles to navigate one of the most difficult periods of her life. "There is always a reason for everything in life. You just have to go through it with strength. Later on, you will figure out why you had to face all of the challenges," she says.By applying this mindset to both her professional and personal endeavors, Sabalenka has cultivated a deep sense of inner strength. Her ability to remain grounded and focused, even in the face of adversity, sets her apart as a true champion. As she prepares to defend her title at the Australian Open, fans and fellow athletes alike are eager to witness the next chapter in her remarkable journey.

The Role of Family and Support

Family has played an integral role in Sabalenka's success. From a young age, her father, Sergey, introduced her to the world of tennis, sparking a passion that would shape her entire life. His influence extended far beyond the sport itself, instilling in her values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Tragically, Sergey passed away in 2019, leaving a void that Sabalenka continues to navigate. Despite this loss, she draws strength from the lessons he imparted, carrying his memory with her in every match she plays.Beyond her immediate family, Sabalenka has built a robust support system that includes coaches, mentors, and close friends. These relationships have been instrumental in helping her overcome challenges and reach new heights in her career. She often speaks of the importance of having a strong network of people who believe in her potential and provide unwavering support. "It’s not just about me on the court," she notes. "It’s about the team behind me, the people who help me stay focused and motivated."In addition to her professional achievements, Sabalenka places great emphasis on the value of balance. While tennis remains her primary focus, she makes time for activities that bring her joy and fulfillment outside of the sport. Whether it's spending quality time with loved ones or indulging in hobbies, Sabalenka understands the importance of nurturing all aspects of her life. This holistic approach has contributed significantly to her overall well-being and sustained success on the court.

Glamour Meets Athleticism

In addition to her athletic prowess, Sabalenka has garnered attention for her off-court style. Featured on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar alongside other notable WTA stars like Anna Kalinskaya and Naomi Osaka, she showcases her fashion-forward sensibilities in a series of stunning photoshoots. Styled in luxury brands such as Gucci, Hermès, Ralph Lauren, and Tiffany, Sabalenka exudes elegance and confidence. The juxtaposition of her glamorous appearance with her fierce competitiveness on the court highlights the multifaceted nature of modern-day athletes.This duality is something Sabalenka embraces wholeheartedly. She sees no contradiction between being a top-tier athlete and a fashion icon. In fact, she views these two aspects of her identity as complementary, each enhancing the other. "I want to show that athletes can be stylish and sophisticated while still being competitive," she explains. By embracing both sides of her personality, Sabalenka has carved out a unique space for herself in the world of sports and fashion.As she prepares to embark on yet another grand slam campaign, Sabalenka remains committed to her dual roles as a tennis champion and a fashion trailblazer. Her presence on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar serves as a testament to her versatility and appeal, proving that she is more than just an athlete—she is a true global icon.